We talk about clubs and leagues and how much they support the community around them and I’m proud in the short amount of time that I have been here to have seen some great examples of this.
The clubs that have their own past players functions or celebrate an anniversary of a premiership, it’s great to see they still have an impact with the historical nature on where the clubs have come from.
Afternoon tea is a staple at all the venues I have been to and looks like a great tradition especially for those of us that need to keep warm during the winter (as I write this its 18 degrees in Brisbane).
In QLD I was lucky enough to have been mentored by the late great Troy Clarke (Some of you may recall his name as a former Brisbane Lions player in the early 90’s). Clarkey actually got me involved within the AFL industry almost 9 years ago and it would be fair to say I wouldn’t be where I am today professionally if it wasn’t for him. Clarkey tragically passed away late October in 2013 after enjoying a game of AFL 9s with our work team where he still starred. After his death AFL Queensland honoured the impact he had within the football community by creating the Troy Clarke scholarship which was an opportunity to support a young footballer achieve his dream.
So after being in the role within the GOTAFE GVFL the last few months I have come across a similar award which helps young players in their educational pursuits with the F.J “Jack” Arthur Award.
The F.J. “Jack” Arthur Trust Fund was instigated in 1979 following the death of the then League Chairman. The Trust was set up through funds initially provided by GVFL Life Member, George Hunter OBE, with the trustees being Mr. Don Kilgour, Mr. George Hunter and the sitting League Chairman and General Manager.
Since the inception of the fund, each year a scholarship has been offered to Under 18 eligible players of the Goulburn Valley Football League, with the GVFL 200 Club contributing to make a substantial amount of money available to assist an eligible player that meets the set criteria.
Considerations shall be given to, but not limited to:
1. The ability of the junior footballer as a footballer and his likely future potential as such.
2. The means, income and assets of his parents or guardians and their ability or otherwise to provide or assist him in his education.
3. His educational standards and capabilities.
4. His aims and ambitions in life.
5. Whether or not he is employed and any income, assets or means he may have of his own.
To make application to the Trustees, the player and Club are required to submit to the GOTAFE GVFL Board completed forms for discussion.
This is a unique opportunity for clubs to assist their young players with so I encourage all members within football clubs to have a discussion and see if there is an individual within your club who could use this assistance in further advancing their education.
Simon Devine (AFL Goulburn Murray League Operations Manager)
Last Modified on 27/09/2016 17:53